» WR Kenny Britt: Perhaps the NFL's most disappointing healthy player last season, Britt believes he can re-emerge as a No. 1 receiver "somewhere else." He hasn't been the same since multiple knee surgeries ravaged his 2011 and 2012 seasons.

What they need

All speculation about replacing Locker subsided once former Vanderbilt star Jay Cutler negated all possibilities of a homecoming by signing an extension with the Chicago Bears. The biggest need on offense, therefore, is a replacement for Chris Johnson, who is unlikely to accept a pay cut. The Titans also will be on the lookout for a right tackle, with eight-year starter David Stewart's future in doubt. Horton will be seeking bookend edge rushers for his 3-4 scheme, as Zach Brown and Akeem Ayers were better suited to the 4-3. The defense also needs young defensive backs to replace aging safeties -- and possibly Verner at cornerback.

» RT David Stewart: Due $6.4 million in a voidable year, Stewart is not expected to be back after losing a step last season.

» TE Craig Stevens: Stevens is scheduled to count $4.4 million against the salary cap. That number is prohibitive for a blocking specialist.

Offseason crystal ball

If Verner is allowed to hit the open market, the Titans are going to have to dig deep to match offers. Since Johnson, Wimbley, Stewart and Stevens are as good as gone, the money will be there to make an impact in free agency. Darren McFadden would make for an interesting Johnson replacement as the playmaking complement to Shonn Greene in the backfield. Horton was with Jason Worilds for a year in Pittsburgh. Perhaps he can lure the breakout pass rusher to Nashville. This franchise is still seeking a post-Jeff Fisher identity. We won't know if they've found it until their needs are addressed in free agency and the 2014 NFL Draft.

The latest edition of the "Around The League Podcast" works through our top 101 free agents and responds to some heat from Donte Whitner.